I was thinking the other day that I'm getting too old to play video games and then I ran across this:
How do fast-paced video games affect the brain? Step into the lab with cognitive researcher Daphne Bavelier to hear surprising news about how video games, even action-packed shooter games, can help us learn, focus and, fascinatingly, multitask.
http://www.ted.com/talks/daphne_bavelier_your_brain_on_video_games.html

I firmly believe that playing games do indeed keep us sharp.

Ana

I also am a firm believer! Your brain is constantly in use compared to sitting on the couch and letting the TV turn your brain to mush. I had an elderly friend who said his computer was the salvation for his brain. He had trouble sleeping at night and instead of sitting there watching dreadful brain-numbing late night television, he would get up and go play chess on his computer.

Thanks for that link, Debra. I enjoyed the video !!

You're welcome, Mad. Good to know we're not only enjoying our hobby but it's helping us in lots of ways.

Debra, I do indeed believe that. One of the most tangible results from my gaming is I can now read a map, something that I just couldn't do before. So, let's all go exercise our brains.

Gaming is also great exercise for the mouse finger.

I just wish gaming did as much for rear end as it does for my brain and my mouse finger!

Aha. I thought I was getting smarter...

Good one Hagatha-
(at your comment not at you)

Thanks for the great link Debra-
Games keep us older ones young at heart and our brains more alert and eager to have new experiences and visit new worlds.These videos confirm what I felt after first discovering video games 10 years ago.
So many people my age have turned into "old fogeys" watching TV and complaining.
Not for me!

Yup, agree with the article. And for us oldies/goodies try Zuma delux. Wow quick thinking, shooting but beware, it's truely addictive.

You're welcome bigmamma1. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
I've never played Zuma but it sounds intriguing.